On master and slave
47:15
Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Book Description: Full of insight and wisdom, Seneca's letters are a Stoic treasure. They've influenced famous philosophers, leaders, and students over the centuries. Each letter can be read on its own. By reading this volume you'll absorb the thoughts of a thoughtful Stoic aimed at living well.
15. “Do you mean to say,” comes the retort, “that I must seat all my slaves at my own table?” No, not any more than that you should invite all free men to it.
You are mistaken if you think that I would bar from my table certain slaves whose duties are more humble, as, for example, yonder muleteer or yonder herdsman; I propose to value them according to their character, and not according to their duties.
Each man acquires his character for himself, but accident assigns his duties.
Invite some to your table because they deserve the honour, and others that they may come to deserve it.
For if there is any slavish quality in them as the result of their low associations, it will be shaken off by intercourse with men of gentler breeding.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On master and slave
Location: Chapter 47, Section 15
Content:
15. “Do you mean to say,” comes the retort, “that I must seat all my slaves at my own table?” No, not any more than that you should invite all free men to it.
You are mistaken if you think that I would bar from my table certain slaves whose duties are more humble, as, for example, yonder muleteer or yonder herdsman; I propose to value them according to their character, and not according to their duties.
Each man acquires his character for himself, but accident assigns his duties.
Invite some to your table because they deserve the honour, and others that they may come to deserve it.
For if there is any slavish quality in them as the result of their low associations, it will be shaken off by intercourse with men of gentler breeding.